ImmunoScape, a Singapore-based biotech backed by Amgen Ventures and EDBi, has announced an exclusive in-licensing agreement with Cue Biopharma, giving it sole access to Cue’s clinical-stage Immuno-STAT molecules for oncology. The collaboration sets the stage for a novel approach to tackling solid tumors, a longstanding challenge in cancer therapy.

The deal combines Cue’s Immuno-STAT technology with ImmunoScape’s precision T cell receptor (TCR) therapies to pioneer a “Seed-and-Boost” immunotherapy strategy. This approach aims to overcome limitations of current cell therapies by enabling potent, controlled expansion of tumor-targeting T cells directly in patients.

The platform works in two steps: a minimal dose of a patient’s T cells is engineered with a tumor-specific TCR (Seed), followed by periodic doses of matching Immuno-STAT molecules carrying interleukin-2 (Boost). This combination allows selective activation of tumor-reactive T cells, potentially eliminating systemic cytokine toxicity while streamlining manufacturing.

“Our Singapore-based in vivo cancer models demonstrate the efficacy of this new approach in multiple solid tumors,” said Dr. Kar Wai Tan, Vice President of Discovery at ImmunoScape.

ImmunoScape’s first Seed-and-Boost program targets the WT1 antigen, present in numerous hard-to-treat solid tumors including lung, pancreatic, colorectal, ovarian, gastric, melanoma, and head and neck cancers, as well as select blood cancers. Preclinical data generated in Singapore support IND-enabling studies, with clinical trials expected to begin by 2027.

The modular platform not only targets solid tumors but could also enhance traditional autologous and in vivo T cell therapies. Its design emphasizes safety, tolerability, and efficacy, aiming to deliver a transformative patient experience while addressing cancers relevant to Asian populations.

"ImmunoScape is pioneering the next wave of cancer therapeutics,” said CEO Michael Fehlings. “Through our Seed-and-Boost strategy, we aim to achieve meaningful improvements in patient outcomes across multiple cancer types.”